06.04 · Opportunity card

Qualifications, points, job search

Classify the opportunity map –
without wishful thinking.

The opportunity card can open the door to looking for a job in Germany. However, the calculator is not intended to sugarcoat the calculations, but rather to provide initial guidance on qualifications, language, points and financing. The binding decision is made by the responsible body.

6points at least
2Basic paths
JobLocal destination
Opportunity card

There are two ways of thinking: recognized specialist or points system. Which logic applies determines which evidence is really important.

Points are just one part: Qualifications, language and livelihood must also be plausible and verifiable.

No replacement for the application: A calculator is preparation, not a promise. The decision lies with the responsible authority.

Not without a job strategy: The opportunity card is intended for job searches. Without a professional profile, application plan and financing, it remains weak.

Points calculator · Self-check

Count points.
Classify evidence.

Only choose what you can prove. The calculator doesn't show whether you get the chance card, but rather whether another test might make sense.

This tool is for initial guidance only. It does not replace legal advice, no individual examination and no decision by an authority, embassy, ​​university or other responsible body.

For this orientation, your entries are only processed locally in the browser and are not saved permanently. Please do not enter ID numbers, passport numbers, health information, notifications or other sensitive data. Further information can be found in the Privacy Policy.

Lalmano offers orientation, information and organizational support. No legal advice is provided within the meaning of the Legal Services Act. Points, requirements and evidence may change. Please also check official sources.

Simplified work value for guidance. In addition, qualifications, language and livelihood must be verifiable; the responsible body makes a binding assessment.

Point logic

Which criteria?
you should check

The calculator arranges the information so that you can see: Is it about full recognition or the points system? Only then will it be counted.

01
Self check

Qualification before chasing points

To the opportunity card

Typical test fields

fieldWhat it's aboutWhy relevant?
QualificationDegree, recognition, professional qualificationWithout reliable qualifications, the opportunity card doesn't work
languageGerman or English with proofCan be a requirement and a points factor
Work experienceEvidence of activities and tasksShows that the profile fits the job market
Age and referenceCurriculum vitae, connection to Germany, previous staysDepending on the constellation, it can bring additional points
FinancingLiving expenses while looking for a jobWithout funding, entry becomes practically risky
Make it in Germany provides official information and the self-check: Job search opportunity map.

Strategy

What after the
Points check counts

The card is just the access. After that, the job search must work: career goal, application documents, recognition issues and realistic financing.

02
Job search

A plan is stronger than a score

To search for a job

What you should work on before applying

  • Professional profile: Which positions really match your degree and experience?
  • CV: Is the CV understandable and concrete for German employers?
  • Recognition: Is the profession regulated or does it require special evidence?
  • Language: Is the level sufficient for applications, everyday life and the workplace?
  • Financing: How long can you realistically search without a job offer?

Step by step

How to use the opportunity card calculator

01
Qualification

First clarify the degree and status of recognition

Decide whether you could start straight away as a specialist or whether the points system will be relevant.

02
Points

Only verifiable points count

Language skills, professional experience and other criteria should be verifiable through documents, not just through self-assessment.

03
Financing

Plan your job search realistically without income

The first few months require money for housing, insurance, mobility and application activities.

04
Application

Only then collect documents for the visa

If qualifications, points and financing seem plausible, an initial document orientation is created.

If you are close to the minimum number of points, you should plan carefully before applying.

Does your score seem good?
Now you have to provide evidence and a plan.

Request an initial assessment
Editorial & sources

Editing by Lalmano.

Status: May 2026. This page is a simplified self-check for initial orientation. The official criteria, evidence and the responsible body count for the decision.

Editorial transparency

As of: May 2026. Lalmano checks content editorially and is based on official information, including from Foreign Office, BAMF and Make it in Germany. The content does not replace individual legal advice.